A Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed November 20, 2026, to deliver its ruling on former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar’s application to amend his lawsuit challenging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificate.

The presiding judge, Justice Inyang Ekwo, announced the date on Tuesday after hearing arguments from lawyers representing Atiku, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), President Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Why Atiku wants to amend the suit

Atiku and the ADC instituted the case seeking Tinubu’s disqualification from the 2027 presidential election over allegations concerning the NYSC certificate submitted to INEC.

The plaintiffs allege that the certificate submitted in support of Tinubu’s candidacy was forged. They are asking the court to determine whether the alleged submission violates constitutional requirements for presidential candidates.

Atiku and the ADC subsequently applied to amend their court filings, explaining that they wanted to correct errors in the documents, provide clearer copies of exhibits and present additional details supporting their allegations.

They maintain that the proposed amendments are necessary to properly present their case and do not introduce a new issue or additional relief.

Tinubu and APC oppose the application

President Tinubu and the APC have opposed the proposed amendments, arguing that the changes would substantially alter the original case.

Their lawyers have also urged the court to dismiss the substantive suit, challenging its legal competence and arguing that the plaintiffs lack the legal basis to bring the action.

The defendants deny submitting a forged NYSC certificate to INEC for either the 2023 or 2027 presidential elections. They also argue that the NYSC has not denied issuing Tinubu’s discharge certificate.

INEC has separately challenged the suit, raising objections that include whether it was filed within the legally permitted period and whether the plaintiffs have the required legal standing.

What happens next?

The November 20 ruling will determine whether Atiku and the ADC can amend their court filings. It will not, by itself, establish whether the certificate was forged or determine the ultimate outcome of the substantive case.

The controversy adds another legal development to the preparations for Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election.

Utelnova will continue to follow the proceedings and report further developments as they emerge.